Group calls on resident doctors to call off strike action, as latter insist on withdrawal of services

The Public and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (PAWUZ) has called on the Resident Doctors Association of Zambia (RDAZ) to rescind its decision to withdraw voluntary medical services, urging resolution through established procedures.

In a statement issued on Monday, PAWUZ President Inambao Sitwala faulted the RDAZ for taking what he described as an illegal route in demanding improved conditions of service.

“We urge our colleagues in RDAZ to amicably resolve their issues through the right channels. As a nation of laws, any abrogation has consequences,” Sitwala said.

He also urged the Ministry of Health to address disputes in a timely manner to avoid unnecessary media exposure, stating that in-house resolutions remained essential.

“As the largest union in Zambia with broad representation across public and allied institutions, we understand and empathize with RDAZ’s concerns,” Sitwala said.

He noted that PAWUZ, alongside other health unions, had successfully engaged government on issues such as: Health shift differentials, commuted night shift allowances, infectious healthcare risk and rural hardship allowances, and long-service bonuses.

Other issues tabled included long-service bonuses, terminal benefits, salary arrears and repatriation, and leave travel benefits.

Sitwala added that dialogue had resulted in ongoing recruitment plans for health workers and other sectors, contingent on Treasury Authority.

He cautioned against industrial action during a period when the world remains vulnerable to COVID-19 resurgences, particularly in parts of China, Asia, and Europe.

“Our national focus should be on preparedness for possible future outbreaks, not withdrawing vital services,” he said.

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Meanwhile, RDAZ President, Dr. Paul Chibwe, confirmed that voluntary medical services by resident doctors were withdrawn effective Monday, June 2, 2025, citing government inaction.

“Over 50 percent of public hospitals depend on resident doctors working under voluntary arrangements,” Chibwe said.

He accused the government of failing to recognize or compensate doctors for essential healthcare delivery, despite their critical contributions.

“This decision was not taken lightly. But in the absence of commitment and engagement from authorities, our members were left with no alternative,” Chibwe said.

He emphasized that the withdrawal followed consultations with members and was aimed at demanding fair labour conditions and compensation.

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